The land dispute surrounding the Ram temple in Sirohi has flared up once again in political circles, just ahead of the upcoming municipal council elections. Accusations and counter-accusations regarding the properties of Ramjharukha and Mahamandir have intensified across the city. Amidst this rising political heat, Hindu Wave convener Harish Dave has stepped forward to share his perspective on the entire controversy. Dave stated that while the core question regarding Ramjharukha has already been resolved, the ongoing political rhetoric poses a continuous threat of damaging the temple property. He explicitly asserted that this matter should not be reduced to a mere political tool, as it is deeply connected to temple assets and its historical legacy.
A Two-Decade Struggle and Administrative Records
Harish Dave claimed that he has been raising issues related to Ramjharukha and temple properties for nearly 25 years. He shared that he has previously served as a manager alongside the late Mahant Jayram Das. According to Dave, an application was submitted to the municipal council back in 2001 to construct a boundary wall around the Ramjharukha area. He claimed that the file related to that application is still preserved with the administration. Furthermore, he noted that he also played an active role in the movement led by Mahant Kishan Das in the year 2002.
Hung Fast, Compromise, and Government Action
Dave recounted that a few months ago, he went on an indefinite hunger strike over this very issue. Following his protest, discussions and a compromise were reached with the SDM through the mediation of a minister of state and the BJP district president. According to him, the government subsequently took action by suspending three officials and initiating an inquiry into the matter. Dave mentioned that the district collector has also assured him of a fair approach. Nevertheless, political rhetoric surrounding the episode continues unabated, thrusting the issue back into the spotlight right before the municipal council elections.
Defending Minister Otaram Dewasi
Addressing the controversy, Harish Dave defended Minister of State Otaram Dewasi against allegations. He stated that Otaram Dewasi is being unnecessarily maligned in this entire matter, which is entirely unfair. Dave pointed out that the complete history of the Ramjharukha Dharuka property and Mahamandir remains unclear to the general public. Therefore, instead of entangling the issue in incomplete information and political accusations, the actual facts concerning the land and temple property must be brought to light.
Protecting Temple Assets Beyond Politics
The Hindu Wave convener emphasized that temple land will not be allowed to be mismanaged or squandered amidst political bickering. He stated that Hindu Wave is closely monitoring the situation and will remain vigilant regarding future actions. According to Harish Dave, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma is personally overseeing an inquiry into the matter. He expressed confidence that the investigation will clear the air and eliminate any misunderstandings regarding the temple property dispute. As the municipal council elections draw closer, the Ram temple land issue continues to dominate Sirohi's political landscape. While political parties trade charges, Harish Dave has refocused attention on the sanctity of the temple property, leaving observers waiting to see what conclusions the investigation will yield and how prominent the issue will become during the election campaign.
